Networking cables are the essential connections that link devices within a network. The conductors inside these cables are twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference. This twisted pair design helps minimize crosstalk and noise, leading to improved data transfer speeds, networking wiring cables are available in two main types: unshielded (UTP) and shielded (STP), each offering distinct benefits for different environments.
Cat 1
This is a type of copper network cable that features pairs of wires. Conductors in each pair are twisted around one another to cancel out electromagnetic interference. The cables come in either shielded or unshielded forms. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) is the most common type of network wire.
Consider Cat 1 if you want your devices to use minimal power and transfer small amounts of data infrequently. Otherwise, opt for a higher-performance Cat 4 cable to ensure your device is future-proof.
Cat 2
There are a few types of network cabling. Cat 1 cables are used for wire telephones and modems and consist of unshielded twisted pairs. These are primarily found in older buildings and support basic data transmission.
In a twisted pair cable, conductors are paired and then twisted around one another to cancel out electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk. Each of these pairs serve as a different channel through which data can be transmitted.
Cat 3
This is a common type of cable in the telecommunications and computer industry as Ethernet and telephone wires. It has conductors that form a simple circuit and are twisted around each other to cancel out electromagnetic interference.
During its peak, this kind of wiring was widely used to set up office network infrastructures. However, it has since been largely replaced by higher category cables that can accommodate faster data transmission rates.
Cat 4
There are a few different categories of copper-based cables that use the Ethernet specification. These include Cat1, Cat2, and Cat3. Each has a slightly different data transfer rate.
These cables are twisted pairs of wires that cancel out electromagnetic interference. This helps to prevent crosstalk and noise.
These are commonly used in ethernet connections for home and business networks. They are also the main choice for Gigabit ethernet wiring.
Cat 5
Category 5 cables are unshielded twisted pair (UTP) wires that support basic Ethernet networking. They come in either solid or stranded forms and are typically used as patch cables.
They have high data transfer speeds, up to 100 Mbps, which is suitable for most home use. To install them, you’ll need a cable stripper to remove outer insulation without damaging the internal wires. A crimping tool is also required to attach RJ45 connectors firmly onto cable ends.
Cat 6
The wires in Cat6 cables are more tightly twisted than the wires in other cable types. This helps reduce crosstalk interference and allows for higher data transfer speeds.
These wires are great for long-distance connections. They’re also backwards compatible with older Ethernet cables. This makes them a good choice for upgrading or future-proofing your network.
These wires are a good option for connecting printers, smart TVs and home security systems to routers or switches. They can even handle Gigabit ethernet connections.
Cat 7
Cat 7 (and its augmented version, Cat7a) Ethernet cable offers a significant boost in data transfer speed and resistance to damage. It’s a popular choice for home router-to-device networking setups.
These cables contain four twisted copper wire pairs. They’re terminated at both ends with 8P8C (Registered Jack standard number 45) physical connectors, also known as RJ45 ethernet plugs.
These Ethernet cables include an overall cable shield, which helps them meet strict signal loss over distance criteria and better protect against degradation caused by crosstalk and EMI. However, the extra shielding can make these network cables thicker and stiffer, making them more difficult to route through tight spaces and bends.
Cat 8
CAT 8 Ethernet cable is the ultimate choice for those who demand more from their networks. It supports Gigabit Ethernet over the full length of the cable, and its shielded foil twisted pair construction minimizes near-end crosstalk (NEXT) and alien crosstalk (AXT).
This networking cable is also capable of carrying Power over Ethernet. This allows data and power to be sent over one single connection, which can save space in crowded server rooms and simplify edge computing installations.
Cat 9
Getting the best home network speed and reliability requires running wires through your house, ideally in the walls. Using the right materials and properly installing the cables will help reduce any issues with wireless connectivity or low performance.
The most common type of network cable is twisted pair, also known as unshielded twisted pair (UTP). Conductors in the cable are paired and twisted to cancel out electromagnetic interference.